Driving jobs in the UK have long been a mainstay of the labour market, providing flexibility, autonomy, and a consistent salary across a range of sectors. From delivery drivers negotiating congested city streets to long-haul HGV drivers traversing miles of open highway, there is an increasing need for competent and trustworthy drivers. Opportunities in this area are more varied than ever before due to the growth of e-commerce, the expansion of logistics networks, and the post-pandemic economy’s recovery. Regardless of your preference for full-time, part-time, or even self-employment, driving positions provide a path to steady employment with room for advancement. We’ll look at the different kinds of driving jobs that are available, the credentials you’ll need, and what driving life in the UK is like in this guide.
Is Driving Difficult?
According to recent Saga data, 94% of British people experience stress when driving. 1001 British drivers participated in a nationally representative study in which we presented them with a range of scenarios, including driving in inclement weather and driving in an unknown location, and enquired as to whether any of them made them feel stressed. Except for six percent, every respondent stated that at least one incident caused them stress.
According to the Department for Transport, the majority of adults in Britain have a driver’s license, with 50 million of them having one. From the workplace to weekend getaways, cars are the most common mode of transportation.
How to Develop Driving Skills in the UK
Winning races is not enough to become a professional driver. Physical fitness, knowledge of the vehicle and industry, and a combination of hard and soft talents are important for driving jobs. The following are essential abilities for a professional driver:
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Motorcycling
Superior driving abilities are necessary for professional racing. At high speeds, a skilled driver can keep control of their car. Additionally, racing demands lightning-fast decision-making and flawless accuracy. Driving skills require ongoing practice and improvement. You can accomplish this by using realistic driving simulators, practicing laps on circuits, and participating in official races as frequently as you can. A professional driver’s other technical skills can also be developed and enhanced with practice.
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Looking at the circuits and the course
An expert driver can benefit from studying circuits. By getting to know the track, the driver can make notes on crucial details like the optimum places to pass and avoid being passed, as well as the greatest places to accelerate. Drivers who practise this can improve their racing times and save valuable seconds. This kind of learning is frequently accomplished using racing simulations, especially in the more well-known fields like Formula 1.
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Examining the contest
Examining rivals can be beneficial in two ways. One benefit is that it can give professional drivers significant insight into how their rivals drive and how to outperform them. For another, it can assist in creating fresh strategies and techniques to implement and raise the likelihood of success.
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Conducting interviews
A professional driver’s job can benefit greatly from having strong interviewing abilities. Professional drivers are frequently expected to interview for their team when they are at the height of their game. Gaining proficiency in this soft skill can be very beneficial. This may be quite helpful to ambitious drivers as they search for sponsorship deals and build their brand.
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Physical well-being
The physical demands of professional racing can be taxing. A driver’s physical health is strained when they race machines at high speeds. By staying physically fit, drivers may maximise their performance and endure extended time behind the wheel without compromising their general health.
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Cooperation
To win a race, an entire team is needed. Co-drivers are necessary for some races. Mechanical teams make sure the cars run as efficiently as possible in circuit racing, such as Formula 1. A competent racer knows how to absorb advice and communicate it to their crew. Effective teamwork can make the difference between victories and defeats.
Highest-Paying Driving Jobs in the UK
The highest-paying driving jobs necessitate a high degree of awareness of both your own and other drivers’ behaviour while driving. You keep the appropriate licence and certificates for the type of vehicle you drive, and you abide by all traffic and road laws. Ten of the highest-paying driving positions are listed below:
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A delivery person
After clients make purchases, delivery drivers deliver the items to them. They prioritise offering peace of mind and first-rate client service. In addition to following certain delivery instructions provided by the customer, they could give customers updates on their orders over the phone. To keep records, companies probably also make clients sign for shipments when the products are delivered. Observing maintenance inspections on vehicles in between deliveries, loading and unloading a van or truck, and refuelling the vehicle before or after each delivery are additional responsibilities. The average pay nationwide is £25,609 annually.
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The driver of a tanker
The average pay nationwide is £35,537 annually. Tanker drivers are employed by gasoline firms to deliver thousands of gallons of premium fuel. These reliable and secure deliveries are essential to many homes and businesses nationwide. Therefore, the gasoline companies depend on their drivers to be alert and on time when they travel their routes. Companies frequently provide tanker drivers with a benefits package that includes medical, dental, paid overtime, pension plans, monthly food allowances, paid training, and an annual allowance because of the necessity of these deliveries and their prompt delivery.
A Petroleum Driver Passport (PDP) or European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) may be necessary for driving a tanker. In addition to the conventional requirements of an LGV, CPC, and a certain amount of driving experience, further requirements may also apply. The work schedule is frequently variable, with shifts scheduled on the weekends, during the day, or at night. You must always pay close attention to the road and other vehicles because of the hazardous nature of your goods. Additionally, they could get thorough instruction on the protocols and procedures related to fuel.
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The driver of a dump truck
Dump truck drivers are employed by construction and groundwork businesses to move heavy loads off construction sites. To guarantee the quick and secure removal of cargo, they frequently collaborate with other workers at the location. These positions could be contract-based for the length of a project or permanent for large-scale construction and dumping services. One common need is to complete a Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS). In addition to their dump truck responsibilities, drivers with construction or groundwork knowledge can frequently help with other tasks within businesses. The average pay nationwide is £31,650 annually.
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Driving Instructor
Corporate driving instructors design and carry out training and evaluations to make sure their drivers are productive, as well as instruct, assist, and develop a driving team. Businesses depend on instructors to make sure that their newest drivers can adhere to protocol and to keep seasoned drivers informed about changes in the industry. By ensuring that drivers adhere to legal requirements and uphold a company’s professional standards, the job also supports Human Resources (HR). The average annual income for a driving instructor nationwide is £32,522.
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Manager of the hub
Hub managers assist their team similarly to driving instructors, frequently supervising the team’s overall growth. In the driving sector, they develop and carry out training programs, corporate processes, and rules and procedures. Additionally, companies may expect hub managers to supervise scheduling, performance reviews, and the recruiting and recruitment process. They could be part of a team that manages a fleet, work alone, or work with a small staff. Management experience or proven leadership abilities are helpful. The average annual wage nationwide is £32,069.
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Van Driver
Van drivers typically stay put, delivering goods or facilitating travel between cities or into neighbouring rural areas. Drivers may also be in charge of loading or unloading luggage or products from their cars, depending on what the business requires. They might drive a vehicle, move people, or convey goods for delivery to several recipients. The National average pay for a van driver is £22,935 annually.
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OTR (over-the-road) truck driver
OTR truck drivers frequently travel between cities or even countries, spending the majority of their driving time on highways. If you want to work for a company on these longer routes, they might pay for your CPC training. Travelling alone or occasionally with an assistant, the profession frequently requires long periods spent on the road with few pauses. In addition to scanning consignments or the pallets of items you transport, they usually conduct daily checks of your car. They don’t help with loading and unloading the van; their job is to drive items. The average pay nationwide is £31,999 annually.
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Driver-owner-operator
Because they work for similar organisations, owner-operator drivers are qualified in the same ways as truck drivers. Owner-operator drivers own their cars, which is the main distinction. Additionally, they take care of the truck themselves, which makes doing routine inspections all the more crucial. Businesses could provide a fuel or maintenance allowance to help with these expenses. The average pay nationwide is £39,926 annually.
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Truck Drivers
Truck drivers frequently operate a lorry within a larger fleet of vehicles, much like other driving jobs with heavier loads. Companies may provide entry-level truck driving jobs, such as assistant driver positions or apprenticeships. The corporation covers the cost of repairs and fuel for truck drivers, who also frequently check their cars for maintenance problems. Companies may demand truck or lorry drivers who work outside of an assistant or apprentice role to have a certain number of years of experience in addition to a CPC. The average annual compensation for a truck driver nationwide is £33,083.
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Manager of delivery
Delivery managers are in charge of structural upgrades and team building. They might design events and programs to help different driving teams coordinate. Delivery managers are employed by businesses to work with other management team members to develop initiatives and find answers that will boost employee morale and organisational efficiency. They may collaborate with stakeholders and other teams, including HR, to create new procedures or systems that will keep the organisation together. Delivery managers oversee schedules, keep tabs on developments, and guarantee a high level of industry expertise and training. A driving history, management experience, leadership abilities, and a variety of qualifications or licenses may be required by employers. The average pay nationwide is £50,054 annually.
Read Also: Employment Agencies in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
How to Get Driving Jobs in the UK
For those who have a strong interest in motorsports and high-octane racing, learning how to drive professionally is a thrilling endeavour. A professional driver is a person who makes a living by operating motor vehicles. The methods for accomplishing this are similar, even though professional racers can experiment with a wide variety of disciplines. The seven steps to becoming a professional driver are as follows:
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Develop your driving abilities.
You need to be a very good driver to compete with other professional drivers. Many professional drivers begin their driving careers at a young age. Karting is one method to do it. The way the cars drive, the kind of track or circuit for races, and the way the competition adheres to league tables and racing schedules all have similarities to circuit sports. Enrolling in a racing school or hiring a racing specialist for one-on-one instruction are two other options available to prospective professional drivers. In-depth, rigorous lessons are provided by racing schools to help students improve their driving abilities. A few concentrate on a variety of motorsport disciplines, while others solely provide specialised training.
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Become a member of a motor club
A crucial first step for someone hoping to pursue a career in driving is joining a motor club. The driver can stay up to date on racing activities by becoming a member of a reputable club. Excellent networking chances with other racing professionals and possible sponsors may also be offered.
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Acquire a car and some equipment
Reliable, race-ready cars are owned by successful drivers. The cost of the car can vary significantly depending on the kind of motorsport. If purchasing a car at this point is not practical, renting one is also an alternative. In any scenario, the motor club can offer priceless advice on this topic. To compete in races, one must also have safety gear and racing gear. This covers apparel and accessories, including gloves, a helmet, and a fireproof racing suit. Once more, the motor club can assist in making sure you have access to the right tools and know-how to keep them in top condition.
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Acquire the necessary professional certifications.
Drivers begin as novices in motor clubs. They can’t compete in events without competition licenses. The four-wheel motorsport regulating organisation and national membership association, Motorsport UK, oversees races. Motorsport UK receives your applications and, if you meet the requirements, grants you the licence. The proper procedure to obtain the necessary licenses is:
- Finish the written section of the NDTC (ARDS) exam.
- In the NDTC (ARDS) test, finish the practical section.
- The instructor will approve the application and forward it to Motorsport UK, who will subsequently grant an Interclub racing licence if the student is accepted.
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Train and practise
To improve to the level required to compete professionally, one must practise constantly. The greatest learning opportunities occur on the track, so try to spend as much time there as you can. As an alternative, drivers can improve their driving abilities by using simulators. There may be simulators available at certain automobile clubs. A computer with a few accessories, like a gearstick, pedals, and a steering wheel, can also run simulation software at home. Because professional driving can require high levels of fitness, physical training is also vital. Resistance training and cardiovascular exercises are great strategies to prepare the body for driving competitions and the physical demands they present.
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Seek a group or sponsor
A professional driver’s job is financed by teams and sponsors. Usually, the driver will do this in return for a share of the earnings or to promote specific goods on their car. The best approach for a budding driver to compete in major races and establish a reputation is to get the backing of a team or sponsor.
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Create a brand
For any prospective driver, understanding how to develop a value offer is essential. In addition to being a successful strategy for securing bigger sponsorship deals, which can result in increased income or access to more expensive cars, this is also how the driver develops their following and reputation. Think about launching a media outlet that reports on the sport from the viewpoint of a professional driver. Using the appropriate hashtags and pertinent mentions, post captivating material and tales on social media channels. Since you’re creating a proposition to attract more attention, sponsors, investors, followers, and prestige, developing a brand is crucial.
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Auto mechanics
Understanding a car’s mechanics makes a professional driver more successful. This knowledge enables drivers to preserve and improve their cars’ performance. A motorist can report issues early and increase success and safety if they are aware of how their car feels and sounds. Professional drivers can benefit their racing team by merely having a basic understanding of how a vehicle operates. Vehicle mechanics can be studied in a variety of ways. The typical route would be to enrol in a mechanics vocational course. Learning more about racing cars as part of the job can also be influenced by a love of mechanics and a career as a professional driver.
Conclusion
Driving jobs in the UK continue to be an important sector of the economy, with a variety of options ranging from local delivery and ridesharing positions to long-haul HGV drivers. The driving jobs industry is still developing because of technology and shifting customer needs, despite recent obstacles including post-Brexit employment shortages and growing fuel prices. The growth of e-commerce and on-demand businesses has made driving jobs an even more accessible and lucrative choice for people looking for steady, flexible work. Future standards, like electric cars and more stringent safety laws, will probably call for greater training, flexibility, and an openness to new ideas. Drivers must adjust to the industry to ensure that driving positions continue to provide fulfilling professions throughout the United States.